Scandal in Croatia: French Players Targeted by Racist Abuse, Federation Calls for FIBA Action

Scandal in Croatia: French Players Targeted by Racist Abuse, Federation Calls for FIBA Action

A bittersweet victory for France, who secured their EuroBasket 2025 qualification by defeating Croatia in Zadar (83-80)

A bittersweet victory for France, who secured their EuroBasket 2025 qualification by defeating Croatia in Zadar (83-80), but had to endure a disgraceful evening. Several French players, including Yoan Makoundou and Amine Noua, were subjected to racist insults and monkey chants from the crowd. This unacceptable incident has prompted the FFBB (Fédération Française de Basketball) to take a firm stance, issuing a strong statement and contacting FIBA to demand action.

A Hostile and Unacceptable Atmosphere

The game, played in the small and fiery Jazine Arena in Zadar (3,500 seats), was expected to be intense, but the situation quickly spiraled out of control. According to L’Équipe, Makoundou was repeatedly insulted with “Fuck you Makoundou”, while Noua was targeted with audible monkey chants. When Makoundou attempted to report the abuse to the referees, the situation escalated further, with more jeers from the stands.

Théo Maledon addressed the incident after the game, saying:
“I heard the insults, but not the chants. In these moments, we just talk more among ourselves. The truth is on the court, through our actions.”

France Demands Action, FIBA Under Pressure

Following the game, the FFBB issued a public statement condemning the abuse:
“Such behavior is unacceptable. We stand with our players and will call on FIBA to take immediate action.”

FIBA now faces pressure to respond decisively. European basketball has had to deal with racist incidents in the past, and this latest disgrace cannot be ignored.

A Bitter Exit for Croatia

Ironically, Croatia – eliminated by France – will not participate in EuroBasket 2025 for the first time in its history. What should have been a hard-fought battle turned into one of the darkest moments in recent qualification history

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